Clothing

Outdoor clothing has changed dramatically over the last 30 years and now utilises some of the most technical fabrics and materials available to man. The principle of many layers remains the same though and because of this there are whole sections of specialist kit dedicated to each. Ranging from technical underwear or base layer, through mid layer and fleece, soft shell to over trousers, waterproof jackets, salopettes and insulation in the form of down or Primaloft. Fabrics such as Gore-Tex, eVent, Nikwax Analogy, Schoeller, Polartec and Merino wool. A host of man-made fabrics including polyamide which is so efficient at repelling water, quick to dry, being breathable, hard wearing as well as long lasting, have dominated the market. However, there is still room for some of nature's finest inventions. Silk is hard to beat for comfort, warmth, coolness and luxury, and of course Merino wool now has a firm place as the base layer of choice for many people. Brands such as Smartwool and Icebreaker dominate this sector. Outdoor jackets, waterproofs, down jackets, over trousers and soft shell are all provided by key outdoor brands such as Mountain Equipment, Montane, Marmot, and Paramo. The market then further subdivides into kit for specialist activities. You will need specific kit for climbing, bouldering, mountaineering and hill walking, and where once upon a time your outdoor kit would do you for all activities now there is a jacket for all occasions.